ai ap world unit 1

What is the Agricultural Revolution?

The transition from nomadic hunter-gatherer societies to settled farming communities.

Define civilization.

A complex society characterized by urban development, social stratification, and a form of government.

What are the characteristics of hunter-gatherer societies?

Small, mobile groups that relied on foraging and hunting for sustenance.

What is the significance of the Neolithic Era?

It marks the beginning of agriculture and the establishment of permanent settlements.

Name two early river valley civilizations.

The Tigris-Euphrates Valley (Mesopotamia) and the Nile Valley (Egypt).

What were some achievements of Mesopotamian civilization?

Developed writing (cuneiform), code of law (Hammurabi's Code), and advances in mathematics.

What is the role of religion in early civilizations?

Provided explanations for natural phenomena and justified the authority of rulers.

What is polytheism?

The belief in multiple gods.

Who were the Sumerians?

The first major civilization in Mesopotamia known for their city-states and innovations.

What is the Importance of the Code of Hammurabi?

One of the earliest written legal codes that established standards for justice.

Describe the impact of agriculture on social structures.

Led to population growth, specialization of labor, and the rise of social hierarchies.

What is a theocracy?

A system of government in which priests rule in the name of a god.

What is the significance of the Nile River for ancient Egypt?

It provided fertile land for agriculture and a means of transportation.

What was the Indus Valley civilization?

An early civilization located around the Indus River known for its advanced urban planning.

How did early trade networks operate?

Facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and technologies between civilizations.

What is cultural diffusion?

The spread of cultural beliefs and social activities from one group to another.

Identify an early writing system developed by the Sumerians.

Cuneiform.

What are ziggurats?

Massive structures built as temples in ancient Mesopotamia.

What is the importance of the Bronze Age?

Marked the transition to metal tools and weapons, enhancing agricultural and military capabilities.

What is a city-state?

A city that with its surrounding territory forms an independent state.

Who were the Phoenicians?

A seafaring civilization known for trade and the development of an alphabet.

What role did women play in early civilizations?

Varied widely but often had limited rights and were primarily responsible for household duties.

What was the relationship between cities and agricultural surplus?

Agricultural surplus allowed for population growth and the development of cities.

What are oracle bones?

Shells or bones used in ancient China for divination.

What is subsistence farming?

Farming that provides enough food for the farmer and their family but not for sale.

How did geography affect early civilizations?

Topography and climate influenced where civilizations developed and how they interacted.

What was the significance of trade in the ancient world?

Promoted economic growth, cultural exchange, and relationships between civilizations.

Define pastoralism.

A lifestyle based on herding and raising livestock.

What is a chiefdom?

A form of hierarchical political organization in non-industrial societies.

What role did technology play in early agriculture?

Improved farming techniques led to increased productivity and efficiency.

How did the environment shape the development of civilization?

Access to water, fertile land, and resources influenced settlement patterns and agricultural practices.

What is archeology, and why is it important for studying civilizations?

The study of human history through excavation and analysis of artifacts, helping to understand past societies.

What is the significance of trade routes such as the Silk Road?

Facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultural influences across vast distances.